1. Describe the differences between specific phobias, social phobias, and agoraphobia.
Specific phobias are also known as strong irrational fear reactions. People suffering from specific phobia work hard to avoid common places, situations, or objects even though they know there's no threat or danger; they feel powerless to stop it. -> fear of heights
People suffering from agoraphobia typically tend to avoid public places where they feel immediate escape might be difficult. -> fear of open/public areas
Social phobia causes abnormally considerable distress and impaired ability to function in at least some areas of daily life. -> fear of socializing
2. What symptoms do children with generalized anxiety disorder have?
Excessive anxiety and worry, occurring more days than not for at least six months, about a number of events or activities. The anxiety and worry are associated with at least three of the following six symptoms: restlessness or feeling keyed up or on edge, being easily fatigued, difficulty concentrating, irritability, muscle tension, and sleep disturbance.
3. Why is it difficult for individuals with panic disorder to get a correct diagnosis?
Since many of the symptoms of panic disorder mimic those of illnesses such as heart disease, thyroid problems, and breathing disorders, people with panic disorder often make many visits to emergency rooms or doctors' offices, convinced they have a life-threatening illness. Many people suffering from panic attacks don't know they have a real and treatable disorder. Others are afraid or embarrassed to tell anyone. Instead they suffer in silence, distancing themselves from those who could be helpful or supportive. Some just decided to ignore the symptoms.
4. Describe the methods used to treat anxiety disorders.
Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT): patient is actively involved in his or her own recovery, has a sense of control, and learns skills that are useful throughout life.
Relaxation: breathing retraining and exercise
Medication: sometimes antidepressants or anxiolytics (antianxiety medications) are prescribed / prescription period differ from person to person
Specific phobias are also known as strong irrational fear reactions. People suffering from specific phobia work hard to avoid common places, situations, or objects even though they know there's no threat or danger; they feel powerless to stop it. -> fear of heights
People suffering from agoraphobia typically tend to avoid public places where they feel immediate escape might be difficult. -> fear of open/public areas
Social phobia causes abnormally considerable distress and impaired ability to function in at least some areas of daily life. -> fear of socializing
2. What symptoms do children with generalized anxiety disorder have?
Excessive anxiety and worry, occurring more days than not for at least six months, about a number of events or activities. The anxiety and worry are associated with at least three of the following six symptoms: restlessness or feeling keyed up or on edge, being easily fatigued, difficulty concentrating, irritability, muscle tension, and sleep disturbance.
3. Why is it difficult for individuals with panic disorder to get a correct diagnosis?
Since many of the symptoms of panic disorder mimic those of illnesses such as heart disease, thyroid problems, and breathing disorders, people with panic disorder often make many visits to emergency rooms or doctors' offices, convinced they have a life-threatening illness. Many people suffering from panic attacks don't know they have a real and treatable disorder. Others are afraid or embarrassed to tell anyone. Instead they suffer in silence, distancing themselves from those who could be helpful or supportive. Some just decided to ignore the symptoms.
4. Describe the methods used to treat anxiety disorders.
Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT): patient is actively involved in his or her own recovery, has a sense of control, and learns skills that are useful throughout life.
Relaxation: breathing retraining and exercise
Medication: sometimes antidepressants or anxiolytics (antianxiety medications) are prescribed / prescription period differ from person to person